Francis Irene Hale Walker

Frances Hale Walker passed from this life March 9, 2014 in Tahlequah. She was born in Cherokee County on July 16, 1918, the first child of John and Lou Ella Hale. She grew up on the family farm and developed a lifelong love of homegrown food and cooking. Even in her final years, Frances grew tomatoes, cucumbers and other vegetables and shared them with family and friends. Her generosity, both in physical gifts and spirit, touched many people. As she often said, she “just wanted to help.”

Frances was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Charley, Johnnie and Peggy; her beloved husband Bill E. Walker and daughter Linda Walker Allen. She is survived by her daughter Kathy, son-in-law Charles W. Allen, grandsons Charles W. Allen, Jr. and Nicholas Allen, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She also babysat dozens of children through the years. Many stayed in touch and continued to visit her after they began to have children of their own. In addition to caring for babies and children, Frances developed a reputation for baking delicious cakes and other pastries and had many regular customers. Her angel food cakes were beyond compare.

Fishing was also one of her favorite activities and the family spent happy times at lakes, creeks and rivers. She loved to be outdoors and many people have wonderful memories of her backyard cookouts, as well as holiday feasts, family reunions and other celebrations. Her delightful laugh and sparkling eyes gave these events an energy that made them memorable. Few people have known anyone as loving, positive and generous as Frances. She was a modest, self-effacing, intelligent and caring woman who had no idea how many lives she influenced in powerful ways. She will be greatly missed but always remembered. We love you bunches and are glad that you are peacefully happy for eternity. Private family services will be conducted at a later date.